The newly constructed terminal building at Dehradun Airport was officially inaugurated on Wednesday (February 14), representing a significant step forward in enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in the northern state. The expansive terminal, covering 42,776 square meters and built at a cost of Rs 486 crore, is poised to play a pivotal role in bolstering tourism, employment, and regional connectivity, ultimately contributing to the economic development of the region.
During the inaugural ceremony, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his appreciation for the rapid strides being made under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Dhami highlighted the commitment of the civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and his department in realising the vision of PM Modi. He congratulated the department for India’s standing as the third-largest domestic aviation market, following the USA and China.
Modernising aviation and ensuring affordability
CM Dhami underscored the dual focus of the government under PM Modi, emphasising the simultaneous modernisation and affordability of aviation services. He commended the efforts directed at making air travel accessible to the common man while ensuring the industry’s overall development.
Features of the new terminal
The new terminal boasts an average peak hour capacity of 3,240 passengers and an annual capacity of 47 lakh. Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, virtually present at the occasion, described the terminal as a harmonious blend of culture, nature, and modern architecture.
“This new terminal building is a combination of culture, nature and modern architecture which will provide new strength to industry, employment and tourism in the area,” said Scindia.
The airport features a runway spanning 2140 meters and an apron housing a total of 20 parking bays. The newly constructed terminal building is well-appointed with passenger amenities, including 48 check-in counters, four conveyor belts, 12 baggage X-ray machines, and a parking facility capable of accommodating 500 vehicles.
Air services expansion under UDAN Scheme
Approximately two weeks ago, a direct air service was initiated under the UDAN scheme, connecting Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh with the capital town of Dehradun on Tuesdays. This initiative has significantly reduced travel time between these crucial towns. The operator, FlyBig, utilises a 19-seater aircraft and offers services three times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.
The minister provided updates on ongoing developments under the UDAN scheme, highlighting the progress at two airports, Pantnagar and Pithoragarh, along with work at thirteen helipads across the state.
Celebrating its sixth anniversary, the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), known as UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), is a government-backed initiative aimed at enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved regions of India. Launched in April 2017, the scheme focuses on improving air routes in unserved areas, fulfilling the aspirations of common citizens.